Brits host Russell Brand has triggered a flood of complaints with off-colour jokes about the Queen and the Iraq war.

ITV1 had received around 300 complaints by Thursday morning, while broadcasting watchdog Ofcom logged a further 135.

Ofcom said most of the calls concerned "the tone of the jokes made during the ceremony," which was shown live for the first time in 17 years.

Broadcaster ITV defended Brand, calling him "an edgy host for an edgy event," but apologised for any offence caused.

The presenter opened the show by poking fun at singer Robbie Williams, who is currently being treated in a rehab clinic for addiction to prescription drugs.

Swearing bleeped

Pointing at a padlock that formed part of the set, Brand said it was "Robbie Williams' medicine cabinet".

Several links included barely-disguised innuendos, including one referring to the Queen.

Announcing the international breakthrough artist award, Brand commented: "I think a good international breakthrough would be if the British and American soldiers tell each other where they are standing".

Brand was booed by some members of the audience following the joke, which referred to the "friendly fire" death of UK soldier Matty Hull in Iraq.